60 New Theories of the Great Forces. 



netic phenomenon. In the interplay of that 

 subtle, all-pervasive fluid, is found the key to 

 the theory of the winds. Hurricanes, cy- 

 clones, tornadoes, zephyrs, etc., are manifes- 

 tations of its operations. These phenomena 

 imply the existence of a force at times stu- 

 pendous, and at times so gentle as simply to 

 move a leaflet. 



This power in full magnitude may spring 

 instantaneously into action ; and it may, too, 

 as instantaneously cease. It may suddenly 

 drive a body of air at the rate of one hun- 

 dred miles per hour, and as suddenly arrest its 

 progress. The air having no inherent pro- 

 pulsive powers, that originate and control its 

 directions, velocities, and varied forms of 

 movement, is yet subject to definite laws. 

 What these laws are has never been di- 

 vulged. " The wind bloweth where it list- 

 eth." Yet in viewing earth and atmosphere 

 as vast reservoirs of vito-magnetic fluid, shift- 

 ing back and forth to maintain an, equilibrium, 

 we believe we see the workings of the very 

 force which moves and sways the atmos- 

 phere ; which causes its currents, both gen- 

 eral and special ; and which gives rise to all 

 its more extraordinary and unaccountable 

 phenomena. 



